She Strengthens

Mastering the Art of Job Interviews: Expert Advice

Are you preparing for a job interview and want to make a lasting impression? Carole Martin, a renowned interview coach, shares her expertise on how to prepare for a job interview, eliminate nervousness, and stand out from the competition.

Preparing for Success

To prepare for a job interview, Martin advises reading the job posting and description multiple times to understand the employer’s needs. “Look at what the company is looking for and pick out key things,” she says. “Read between the lines to figure out what they are really looking for, which are key factors.” Identify 5-7 keywords and create stories or examples that demonstrate your experience and skills in those areas.

Overcoming Nervousness

It’s natural to feel nervous before a job interview, but Martin suggests focusing on what you can control. “Control the things that you have power over,” she says. “Let them know that you are the best person for the job.” Be prepared to sell yourself and showcase your skills and experience.

Standing Out from the Competition

To stand out from the competition, Martin recommends knowing what you bring to the position. “Find what I call your ace, which is something that makes you stand out from the others,” she says. This could be a unique skill, experience, or language proficiency. Knowing your personal branding and strengths is also essential.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Martin identifies two common mistakes people make during interviews: talking too much or not enough. She suggests keeping stories and examples concise, ideally within a 2-minute time frame. When answering yes or no questions, expand on your answer to provide more context and showcase your skills.

After the Interview

After the interview, Martin recommends rating yourself and writing down everything you remember about the interview. Identify what went well and what you could improve on. Keep a diary of your interviewing experiences to track your progress and avoid making the same mistakes in the future.

Believe in Yourself

Martin’s final piece of advice is to believe in yourself. “Women under rate themselves,” she says. “Believe in yourself. If you don’t believe in yourself, why would anyone else believe in you?” Give yourself credit for your skills and experience, and don’t be afraid to showcase your strengths.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be well-prepared to ace your next job interview and take the first step towards achieving your career goals.